noun

botulism

BOT-yuul-ihz-uhm

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Botulism (noun) means a severe, often life-threatening form of food poisoning caused by a toxin from bacteria that grow in improperly canned or preserved food. Example: “The family got botulism after eating home-canned green beans that hadn't been processed properly.”

noun

A severe, often life-threatening form of food poisoning caused by a toxin from bacteria that grow in improperly canned or preserved food.

"The family got botulism after eating home-canned green beans that hadn't been processed properly."

"Botulism can cause muscle paralysis if left untreated."

How to use botulism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA dangerous illness caused by toxic bacteria in badly preserved food, especially home-canned goods.

Common mistake

Don't confuse with generic "food poisoning" — botulism is a specific, much more serious condition caused by a particular toxin.

Common pairings

a case of botulism botulism poisoning infant botulism

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: botulisms

Test yourself on “botulism” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The family got _____ after eating home-canned green beans that hadn't been processed properly.

Etymology

From German Botulismus, built on Latin botulus, "sausage" — early cases were traced to spoiled sausages — plus the medical suffix "-ism."

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for botulism

populism masculism

See all rhymes for botulism →

Frequently asked questions

What does “botulism” mean?

The word “botulism” means a severe, often life-threatening form of food poisoning caused by a toxin from bacteria that grow in improperly canned or preserved food. In plain terms, a dangerous illness caused by toxic bacteria in badly preserved food, especially home-canned goods.

How do you pronounce “botulism”?

“Botulism” is pronounced BOT-yuul-ihz-uhm (/ˈbɑ.t͡ʃəˌlɪz.əm/ in IPA).

How do you use “botulism” in a sentence?

Here is “botulism” used in a sentence: “The family got botulism after eating home-canned green beans that hadn't been processed properly.”

What part of speech is “botulism”?

“Botulism” is a noun.

Where does the word “botulism” come from?

The word “botulism” comes from Latin. From German Botulismus, built on Latin botulus, "sausage" — early cases were traced to spoiled sausages — plus the medical suffix "-ism.".